Tag Archives: gubernatorial

MONTPELIER – Write-in candidate Annette Smith said she now plans to request a recount, which was previously not an option.

When primary results were certified Tuesday, Progressive Party candidate Martha Abbott was officially declared the winner. Abbott defeated Smith 371-354, and Abbott ended her campaign as governor later that day.

Smith was not eligible for a recount, though, because the 17-vote difference wasn’t close enough. A 2 percent difference from the total amount of votes cast was required, which Smith missed by two votes.

The canvassing committee will meet at 4 p.m. at the secretary of state’s office, though, to recertify the results. State officials say the total will now be 371-370, with Smith losing by one vote but now eligible for a recount.

She plans to file the petition for a recount in Washington County Superior Court today after the results are recertified.